Private-public deals boost Nottingham workforce

More than 500 jobs could be created in Nottingham after the city council agreed a hat-trick of deals with private firms.

The deals include an agreement with Chinook Sciences to develop 17-acres of council-owned land into a new energy park, in a move that could bring an additional 270 jobs to the city.

Planning permission is in place for the new plant, which will generate energy from waste and includes a manufacturing and enhanced R&D facility. The council and Chinook have signed an option agreement to lease the land, which could lease to development starting at the site next spring.

"The plans would not only boost the city's credentials for green energy production, but would provide jobs for local people, mostly in manufacturing, which would be extremely welcome," said the deputy leader of Nottingham City Coucil, Graham Chapman.

Up to 170 roles could also be created after the authority entered into a partnership with Northgate Public Services.

Northgate will manage Nottingham's revenues and benefits function on behalf of the council and will establish a new regional headquarters in the city.

Nottingham City Council also secured an additional £600,000 from the European Regional Development Fund for the Southglade Food Park, bringing the total European investment to £3.8m.

The park will support the creation of 90 jobs in 12 new production, testing and packing units.

Chapman added: "Manufacturing is an important sector for Nottingham, and this investment will unlock at least 90 job opportunities for the local community, with further jobs available in constructing the new units as well."